Degree Options
Whether you prefer a broad understanding of politics and government or a more focused area of study, the Political Science major provides flexibility to meet your goals. Students may pursue the major without an option, referred to as General/No Option, or select one of the four options below to develop expertise in a specific field.
- Applied Public Policy Studies
- Legal Studies
- National Security Studies
- Social and Political Justice
Our General/No Option Political Science Major offers courses in political theory, comparative politics and government, U.S. politics and government, international relations, and research methods. You will sharpen your analytical, communication, and evaluative skills. Our gradutes pursue careers in government, business, education, law, policy analysis, and electoral politics.
Applied Public Policy Studies (APPS)
This option allows students to engage in more vocationally-labelled training in Political Science with an emphasis on policy studies. Students can apply their knowledge and skills to jobs in different government agencies as well as in graduate programs in Political Science, Public Administration and Policy, Public and International Affairs, or law.
Legal Studies Option (LS)
You will explore and analyze potential security threats in the United States and around the world in preparation for careers in the military, intelligence agencies, the diplomatic corps, law enforcement, and security analysis. We offer courses in counterterrorism, military strategy, international conflict management, and intelligence analysis.
National Security Studies Option (NSEC)
You will explore and analyze potential security threats in the United States and around the world in preparation for careers in the military, intelligence agencies, the diplomatic corps, law enforcement, and security analysis. We offer courses in counterterrorism, military strategy, international conflict management, and intelligence analysis. adfsfsdfsdf
Social and Political Justice Option (SPJ)
You will think critically about rights, inequality, justice, interests, and exploitation. Students link courses in political theory, public policy, and politics to social justice in government, corporate, and civil society settings.